The Olympics have always had a significant impact on the sports represented, and mountain biking (MTB) is no exception. The 1996 Atlanta Olympics, with the victory of Paola Piece, marked a turning point for our discipline, bringing it into the global spotlight and spurring a wave of interest and participation.
The End of an Era: Nino Schurter
The closure of these Olympic Games marks the end of the era of Nino Schurter, one of the last true MTB icons. Schurter's passion and dedication have inspired many, and his emotion at leaving the sport highlights the strong emotional bond he has with MTB. However, his retirement raises an important question: who will take his place as a symbol and point of reference for the next generation?
The Search for a New Icon
Sports draw energy and identity from their symbols. MTB has had charismatic figures such as, Martinez, Absalon, Hermida and, of course, Schurter. These athletes not only excelled in their sport, but also embodied the spirit and essence of MTB, becoming role models for young enthusiasts.
The Challenge of Identity
Currently, the cross country (XC) seems to be dominated by athletes who come from other sporting fields, bringing with them less identification with the world of MTB. This phenomenon became evident already last year with the world victory of tom pidcock, a cyclist who, despite being extraordinary, participates in XC races sporadically and belongs to a team whose core business is road cycling.
Pidcock, a two-time Olympic champion and current world champion, rides a bike built specifically for him and the winner of the women's race, but his team doesn't have MTB as its primary business strategy. This may raise questions about how much added value they can really bring to the MTB sector.
Reflections on the Future
Will a young MTB enthusiast be able to see Pidcock as a point of reference? Probably not, because that intrinsic bond and continuity that make an athlete an icon of a sport is missing. The cross country, which has the greatest visibility, is experiencing reflected light and risks losing its identity. While the races are spectacular and the tracks are exciting, the lack of iconic figures dedicated entirely to MTB can weaken the sport's appeal.
Conclusion
The recent Olympics have highlighted some challenges for MTB. The end of the Schurter era leaves a void that needs to be filled by new symbols that can embody the spirit of MTB and inspire the next generation. Without these points of reference, the risk is that MTB, while remaining spectacular, could lose part of its identity and its ability to attract new enthusiasts.
